Third-Degree Burns

Third-degree burns are the most serious burns and are commonly evidenced by visible charring of the skin, purple fluid leaking from the burn area, and the formation of leathery legions, called eschars, on the skin. Third-degree burns often affect nerve endings in the skin, which can make the injury feel less painful immediately after it is sustained and can mislead some victims into believing that the burn is not that serious. Third-degree burns can also affect muscle tissue and bone. In most cases, third-degree burns require immediate medical care to guard against infection and other complications.